2020 branch 8 website: “make · send hotline comments to chuck joyce at [email protected]........

Send Hotline comments to Chuck Joyce at [email protected]............. INDEX

Branch 8 Website:

https://www.sirbr8.com

BIG SIR COLUMN

During these days of COVID-19, I trust that you and your family remain healthy, safe, and are discovering new ways to enjoy your time at home.

The Branch Executive Committee (BEC) met (via. ) on Monday, May 11. The BEC is monitoring public health announcements and State SIR guidance. We made several decisions regarding our future meetings and

activities. As previously communicated, we have cancelled our May events and the Ladies Day Luncheon scheduled for June 8. The Barbecue in June is under review, and may be rescheduled to Fall.

Nevertheless, public health regulations in Contra Costa County are beginning to allow certain outdoor activities that can be conducted with “social distancing” and related precautions. As a result, the BEC discussed how we can cautiously resume some of our outdoor SIR activities. Several Activity Chairmen have developed plans to restart their activities with special conditions maintained for the health and safety of our members.

Specifically, the BEC approved the restart of Heads Up Walkers and SIR Hikers for later this month. Those activities will be held with precautions such as no carpooling to events, wearing masks, using sanitizers, and maintaining distance when socializing at the conclusion of the event. In June, our 18-Hole, 9-Hole, and Couples Golf activities will resume with conditions, and they will follow the specific guidelines for play that are defined by each golf course. Currently, there are no plans to restart any of our indoor activities. However, I encourage all activities to begin planning how they can safely restart their activities later this summer. Those restart plans must be approved by the BEC before the activity can resume their events.

In the meantime, I encourage you to use to keep in touch. Branch 8 has. subscription that will enable activity groups to get together socially and to make future plans. We have several knowledgeable Sirs who can conduct. Zoom training sessions for your groups. Let us

improve our Zoom proficiency for future activities and possible membership meetings.

It continues to be an interesting and challenging time for us. Please share your “pandemic era” experiences with us, and we will post them on the Branch 8 website for all to share and enjoy. Submit your stories and experiences to “[email protected]”. We are updating the Branch 8 website with new and interesting information. For example, there is a link to light-hearted stuff in the new “Amusement Park”. Activity webpages and other branch news are also being updated. Please check out the website.

I look forward to the time when we can resume our luncheons,

activities, and the social interaction that makes SIR Branch 8 so special.

Let’s stay apart to stay together

- Steve Schramm,Big Sir

LITTLE SIR SEZ

Activity Chairman: Have you thought about using to have a “virtual” activity meeting?

Give it a try. Stay in touch with your members. If you need help with Zoom, contact Nick Maufe at [email protected]. He can get you started. A few activities have tried with success in keeping in touch. Don’t give up SIR will be back. Thanks for your support. Hang in.

- Ron Cassano, Little Sir

This quarantine made me realize

that I have no real hobbies other

than going out to eat and spending

money.

“MAKE NEW FRIENDS FOR LIFE” Editor: Chuck Joyce

2020

WHAT IS SIR?

https://youtu.be/5j5WsiyKp5s

(SIR Bill Phelon)

HOW BILL SEES IT:

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.sirbr8.com/

http://www.sirbr8.com/


https://youtu.be/5j5WsiyKp5s


Activities Calendar 5 Foreign Films ON HOLD 13

Activities Report 6 GOLF 13-14

Arts, Crafts & Hobbies ON HOLD 7 Heads Up Walkers 15 ASTRONOMY ON HOLD 6 HIKERS 15 Ballet & Opera ON HOLD 7 Luncheon 2 BBQ - 7 LDL 4 BIRDERS ON HOLD 7 Member Relations 4 Bocce Ball ON HOLD 7 Mixer ON HOLD 12 Books 8 Model Trains 14 Bowling ON HOLD 8 Photo Gallery N/A Card Games ON HOLD 9-10 Pickle Ball ON HOLD 14 Car Enthusiasts 8 Pinochle ON HOLD 12 Chaplain's Corner 4 Public Relations 3 Chess ON HOLD 9 Recruiting Committee 3 Classified Ads 19 Senior Resources 18 Computers & Technology 9 Sirs at The Games ON HOLD 14 DanSIRs ON HOLD 10 Sirs in The Kitchen 12 Digital Photography 11 Sums in Retirement ON HOLD 16

Dining 11-12 Sunshine Report 4 Doctor's Office ON HOLD 4 Traveling Sirs 16 Dominoes: ON HOLD 11 Wine Articles 16-17 FISHING 13 Woodpeckers ON HOLD 17

Writing Your Life Story ON HOLD 17

Signifies Activity Open to Spouse and Partners

- Activities via Zoom

ON HOLD - Activities on Covid-9 Hold

ACTIVITY COED PAGE ACTIVITY COED PAGE

HOTLINE INDEX

SIR

Next SIR Luncheon:

TBA



NEED A RIDE TO THE

LUNCHEON?

Those SIRs who do not have transportation and would like a ride to the monthly luncheon should contact Scott Graff at (925) 552-6097 or [email protected].

ABSENCES & BRINGING GUESTS

If you are

going to be

absent or are bringing a guest, please call

or E-mail by Wednesday noon before the meeting.

Phone:925-901-4826 (calls are not automatically

returned) Email:[email protected] (a confirmation E-mail will be sent to you) IMPORTANT: If a confirmation E-mail is not received, it is the member’s responsibility to follow up and ensure it was sent to the correct address. Either resend the E-mail or call the attendance number at 925-901-4826 by Wednesday noon before the meeting.

- Bill Peterson, Attendance Secretary

RED DOT BADGES

They belong to our new members, don’t forget to say “Hi” and introduce yourself. Let's make them feel at home. Talk about your SIR activities and ask them to join you.

PUBLIC RELATIONS &

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

My article is a shoutout to all out there sailing in the "Sea of confusion" on the good ship, "Would you believe it!" What are you doing to battle this challenge? Do you miss the SIR Luncheons, Guest Speakers, SIR friends, and how about your favorite activities? What are you doing on the Zoom front lately; I have enjoyed Winefinders One, Acalanes Strength, and Balance Class twice a week,

SIRS in the Kitchen was fun today, Zooming in Family Meetings. I'm fixing all kinds of things around the house and yard, and Peggy is falling for me once again, which is to say it isn't all bad. I guess it is the fact that we realized my hair was growing once more wow what a welcomed surprise! Who knew? Between Peggy and I, we see cleaner air, clearer skies, friendly, polite people walking about ala Tom Mohrman who, with Shiela, are "serial walkers" perhaps the best in the branch! What are you doing these days? It is not all negative if you look for the positive! SIR BEC Secretary Dennis Mierzwa has put out a call: all members who want to share what they are doing to compensate for "staying in place" and learning the "New Normal" let him know. Brag or yell, what the hell! Join in, we want to hear what you are doing, and we want to keep in touch; because we miss you!

Stay well and healthy!

- Tony de Losada

RECRUITING

COMMITTEE

No new report for June.

- Howard Meadow,

[email protected] 415-606-5556

NEW ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER or E- mail

If you change your address, phone

number or E-Mail address, please notify Dennis Mierzwa at (925) 938-5343 or

send him an E-mail at: [email protected].

SIR







MEMBER RELATIONS COMMITTEE

No new report for June.

.Bill Espey Chairman, [email protected]

CHAPLAIN'S CORNER

- Branch 8 Chaplain, Fred Nelson

DOCTOR'S OFFICE

LADIES DAY LUNCHEON

Luncheon event has been cancelled and all checks received to date will be destroyed. We hope to have a December Ladies Day Luncheon and if we do, it will be a special one to celebrate. Please stay safe and healthy.

Frank Kilarr: [email protected] https://sir.go.customprintcenter.com

•

SUNSHINE REPORT Since the May Hotline Report the Committee has not extended wishes for a rapid recovery to anyone.

The Committee has extended condolences to the Jerry Gaya and Clark Morehouse families.

Sunshine Committee ([email protected]) - Terry Norton 925-798-6023, Larry Mersmann 925-935-

We have retired MDs, who are willing to give informal medical information to SIR members. The "doctor's office" is open at 10:45am on Luncheon days,

at a table in the lobby. - Dr. Bill Adler, Chairman open at 10:45am on Luncheon days, at a table in the lobby. - Dr. Bill Adler, Chairman

, at a table in the lobby. - Dr. Bill Adler, Chairman

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE



mailto:[email protected][email protected]

https://sir.go.customprintcenter.com/

https://sir.go.customprintcenter.com/



JUNE ACTIVITY CALENDAR

SIR 8 Web Link to Activity Calendar

(SIR Bill Phelon)

HOW BILL SEES IT:

Remember when you could

refer to your knees as right and

left instead of good and bad?

SIR


https://www.sirbr8.com/calendar/


ACTIVITIES COORDINATING COMMITTEE

Nick Maufe Ray DeWit Ken Main

Believe it or not, in these quiet times, this has been a very busy month for the ACC. We have been focused on working with Activity Chairmen to find ways to keep their Activities alive and well under lockdown conditions that work so strongly against what SIRs stands for. Our community, our camaraderie, our social life has taken such a big hit that it has been challenging. Many Activities have, tentatively at first, now with more confidence, used to meet. Many Chairmen and others have become Zoom Hosts and got the members together to chat, to talk about how they are doing and in some cases to enjoy their Activities much as before but without physical presence. There do remain many members who have not yet stepped into the Zoom world and we continue to work with Chairmen on training and orientation to try to bring them

on board.

Training: For those of you who have not yet tried Zooming I encourage you to take the plunge. It may seem challenging at first but once you are in and interacting it is straightforward. To that end a group of 15 or so SIRs have volunteered to work 1 on 1 with their fellow SIRs to get them going on . Please email me, Nick Maufe, [email protected] if you would like to receive 1 on 1 Zoom orientation.

Activity Restarts: And now, like our state, we are starting to tentatively reopen and restart some Activities. First out of the gate are the outdoor Activities such as Walkers and Hikers. Early in June we will see the Golfers restart. Chairmen of these Activities have submitted detailed COVID19 safety plans to the BEC for approval before proceeding. As in California generally, we are taking these steps cautiously and are ready to back away should there be a need. Beyond this focus the ACC has been quietly working on improving our SIRs website with an initiative to get our Activity pages easy to follow and up to date. I hope you can see these improvements. Thank you, Chairmen!

ASTRONOMY

Due to the virus issue, we will not have an Astronomy meeting in June. We are investigating a way where we may be able to have a virtual meeting in the future. Also, next March the Webb telescope is to be launched. This is a very big deal

and we recommend members go to Google and search Webb Telescope. Lots of good information about the telescope.

- Larry Lange, Co-Chairman 254-6281 [email protected], - Allen Grossman, Co-Chairman, 838-0954, [email protected]

Here is a link to Contra Costa Health Services for the latest information: https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/frequently-asked-questions






https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/frequently-asked-questions


ARTS, CRAFTS & HOBBIES

I know there are at least 100 of you out there who have a special talent or an interesting hobby or you collect things. Don't be bashful! Share it with us. We all would really like to see your

special art work, carving, sculpture, wood turning, fishing lures, match book covers, travel memorabilia, photographs, silver spoons (even the one you were born with in your mouth), baseballs, golf balls, or moth balls. Or maybe you do taxidermy, collect coins, make beer, build toothpick castles, make train cars, fly drones, have a model plane collection or something unusual that we don't know about. If you have a hobby, special interest collection, art of any form or a special skill, please consider sharing it with your fellow

SIR. All it takes is an hour before our monthly meeting and we'll help you get things set up and taken down. In the process you may find a new friend, who has your same interest and of course your fellow SIR will appreciate your time and effort. Give me a call or send an e-mail. All of us old guys like to see stuff and we appreciate people who collect or have a hidden talent or special skill. SHARE it with us. It makes the meeting more interesting and I’ll even buy you a glass of wine. - Ron Smith, Chairman [email protected] 925-314-3066

ANNUAL JUNE BBQ

In an abundance of caution, the barbecue committee has decided to cancel the event this year. Hopefully we’ll be in a better place next year.

- Dan Crowley, BBQ Chairman, 602-740-6644, or E-mail [email protected]

BALLET AND OPERA

No activity. All theater

venues are shut down until further notice. We are hoping for re-openings but none are scheduled yet.

- Chairman: David

Bushnell – E-mail:

[email protected] 925-838-3914 Assistant Chairman: Richard Remley,

[email protected]

BIRDERS

No new report submitted.

- Leary Wong, Chairman, 925-457-0807, [email protected] Jerry Mix, Asst. Chair, 925-689-4948

BOCCE BALL

- Chairman: Bob Barnes 686-0106 [email protected] Asst. Chair: Martin Hawco 925-689-4251, [email protected]

SIR

(SIR Bill Phelon)

The elevator to success is out of

Order. You’ll have to use the

Stairs.

HOW BILL SEES IT:










BOOK EXCHANGE

As always, if you have any questions or suggestions contact any member of the book exchange team: Chairman: Alan Curtis, [email protected] . Assistant Chairman: Tom Kerns, [email protected], Assistant Chairman: Rob Laaback, [email protected], Assistant Chairman: Mike Anderson, [email protected]. Assistant Chairman: Tom Keehn, [email protected] "

BOOK GROUP

At our May Book Group Meeting (via a teleconference) we discussed the book "The Things They Carried" written by Tim O'Brien.

The book relates to both carried physical items and carried emotional

"items" many of which remain with the veterans, long after the completion of their military service. A book of fiction, it is a collection of related semi-autobiographical stories inspired by O'Brien's experiences as a college educated "grunt" (Infantry man) in the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1970. His style of writing frequently blurs the distinction of fiction and reality. It has many themes which include courage, duty, memory, guilt, and storytelling. "Things" was written in 1990 and in 2010 the New York Times described the book as a Vietnam Classic.

There was a lively discussion as many of the group had served in Vietnam, in the military, or lived through the Vietnam era as civilians. The book was rated as a 4.2 on a 5 point scale, one of the highest ratings given to a book in recent memory. It is highly recommended.

The non-fiction book for the June 2nd ( ) meeting is "Buzz, Sting, Bite: Why We Need Insects " written by Anne Sverdrup-Thygeson. Be sure to dial in and don't forget your bug spray!We are led by Nick Maufe, the Activity Chairman of the SIR Book Group. He may be contacted at [email protected]

BOWLING

Winter

Leagues

Bowling League – The “Wednesday

Seniors” league was cancelled due to the coronavirus virus. At the time of

the cancellation, there were three teams tied for first place. The three teams will share in the winnings.

The 2020-2021 league will start September 2, 2020. Several local SIRs bowl in the “Wednesday Seniors” league at Clayton Valley Bowl. We bowl at 10 AM every Wednesday morning. There are ten four-person teams. Spouses and guests are welcome. There are normally open positions so you can join any time.

Please contact Dan Weller if you are interested in league and / or tournament bowling.

To access the SIR State bowling information, open the state bowling web site at http://www.sirinc3.org/sirBowling/ . You can find tournament schedules, applications and results on the site.

ACTIVITY CHAIRMAN: Dan Weller 925-935-5510 [email protected] ASSISTANT CHAIR: Jim Erickson 925-939-7925 [email protected]

CAR ENTHUSIASTS

Car Enthusiasts continue to tread water in the sea of COVID-19 warfare. We did accomplish a successful meeting on April 7th with a check-in to see how all activity members were coping with the on-going threat of infection and sheltering-in-place. All attending are still healthy and working to reduce boredom. We will move future meetings to where conditions dictate.

We attempted to fill in blanks still present in our annual event schedule but without a lifting of the current restrictions, we are stationary car guys. SIR's branch 8 remains in a holding pattern regarding Branch activities through May, cancelling the LDL and perhaps the annual BBQ. We'll see what happens.

A busy day at the Book Exchange (circa ???)








http://www.sirinc3.org/sirBowling/




CE guys will try to put on a group dinner in July if gathering restrictions are lifted. We are all anxious to return to a normal activity status as soon as possible.

The next CE meeting will be Tuesday, May 5th, (if the status has changed regarding quarantine and Sir's guidelines) at 1 PM in the Round Table Pizza meeting room, Oak Park Blvd. Pleasant Hill. Come a few minutes early to get your food and drink ordered prior to meeting. Meetings usually last about 1 hour. If still in quarantine, we will meet via and the meeting will run about 40 minutes. Come join us, one way or the other.

If interested in joining the Car Enthusiasts Activity, please contact any of the folks listed below.

Happy Motoring.

- Activity Chair: Chick Lowry [email protected] Assistant Chairs: Tom Mohrman [email protected] Bill Koski [email protected]

CHESS

No new report submitted for June.

Steve Schramm ([email protected]) or see the SIR Chess activity webpage.

COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY

At the May meeting, the Computer & Technology group “Zoomed” with a presentation on "Algorithms & Machine Learning" by Dean Steichen. Automatic decisions are being made by companies based on algorithms and

machine learning methods. Dean helped explain what this means and how it is being used. You can check out Dean’s slide show at the CAT web page: https://sirinc2.org/a16cat

The Computer & Technology Group normally does not meet in June. But this year, there will be an informal get-together on Thursday June 18, at 9:30 AM. There will not be a presentation topic, but instead it will be an open discussion between members about various computer and technology subjects. Members will be encouraged to introduce their technology problems (and solutions), favorite applications, new an interesting products, etc. As usual, there will be several technical experts in “attendance” to answer your questions.

To attend the meeting, members need to be on the CAT mailing list. A few days before the meeting, a web link will be sent to members on the mailing list.. If you are not already on our email list, send an email request to: [email protected] - Bill Phelon, [email protected], 254-8338

CRIBBAGE

No new report submitted for June. Cribbage Group meets on the First Wednesday and the Third Tuesday of each month. We meet at Round Table Pizza located at 1938 Oak Park Blvd. in Pleasant Hill. Hours of play are 1 PM to 3 PM. Please join us if you have played Cribbage or would like to learn the game. Only one game was played in January.

- Chairman, Ron Draper Email: [email protected] Asst. Chairman, Dan Smith Email: [email protected]












BRIDGE BASIC


We normally meet on the first Thursday of the month. The game will at 1:30PM at Round Table Pizza, 1938 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill.

- Rod Spicer, Chairman, 935-5306, [email protected]

BRIDGE RUBBER

No new report submitted for June. We normally meet on the first Thursday of the month. The game will at 9:15 AM at Round Table Pizza, 1938 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill.

Rubber Bridge was cancelled this month because of the Please answer Al Welch's reminder email early so that we can try to fill the tables. Bring your own coffee.

- Rod Spicer, Chairman, 935-5306, [email protected] Al Welch, Co-Chair, 938-4131, [email protected] David Bushnell, Co-Chair, 838-3914, [email protected]

BRIDGE DUPLICATE 1


Substitutes are often needed. Please contact one of the chairmen below to get on the substitute list: Asst Chairman: Dick Long 925 274-1786 Asst Chairman: Jim Regan 925 418-4106 Chairman: Bob Kahl 925 284-8572

BRIDGE - PAIRS


We normally play the 3rd Monday of each month at Mel's Diner in Concord. If interested, we'd love to deal you in. Please give me a call.

George Schulze at (925) 429-1756 or [email protected]. or Ken Main at [email protected] or (925) 945-1065

POKER

PLAYERS WANTED, COME JOIN US FOR

POKER!

The Poker group is looking for more players. Experienced and beginning players are welcome. Various games of Poker are played on the second and fourth Tuesdays

of the month. Please contact Dan Franklin if you would like to play or learn poker. Chair: Ron Draper 939-5740 [email protected] Asst. Chair: Dan Franklin 310-4900 [email protected]

PINOCHLE

No new report submitted for June. Pinochle meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at Rocco's Pizza. Play starts at 1:00 with lunch at 12:00. Beginner's welcome. Contact Stan Johnson of Branch 8 at 938-7016 or [email protected] OR

chairman Jeff Morrow at [email protected].

DANSIRs

Chair: John Sutton 925 787-7726

[email protected] Ass’t: Russ Anderson 925 783-4630 [email protected]






mailto:[email protected].









DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Our May Digital Photo meeting was our first in which members were able to “share” their own photos individually with the group. It was a little bumpy, but there was good progress. Getting to this point involved research, education and several test Zoom meetings, but the results were worth the effort. In fact, the graphics material we put together is now

on the Branch’s home page under the “Zoom” button. Check it out. Going forward, the plan is to continue viewing our photos using this approach. The May meeting was dedicated to “pets.” For June, it will be our 12 best travel photos.

During the “shelter in place” lock down, the Digital Photo group will be holding “virtual” Zoom meetings on third Fridays of the month. Meetings will begin at 10:00 AM. A day or so beforehand, Group members will be sent a link to the meeting. New SIR Branch 8 members

interested in digital photography should email the chairman to be placed on our email list.

- Bill Phelon, Chair: [email protected], 254-8338 Dave Davis, Vice Chair: [email protected], 838-1753

DOMINOES

Chairman: Dan Rinaldi 925-381-5486

[email protected]

Co-Chairman: Alan Schulze 925-876-

7537 [email protected]

MEXICAN TRAIN DOMINOES

Chairman: Danny Rinaldi 825-0519 [email protected]

Asst. Chairman: Terry Norton 798-6023 [email protected]

BARGAIN BITES


Chairman: Ron Smith 314-3066 [email protected] Asst. Chair: Ron Maciak 357-8005 [email protected]

DINE IN #1


Ron Cassano at [email protected].

DINE IN #3


Rich Cheney (925)289-1265 or [email protected]

DINE OUT #1 Until it is safe to reopen our group dining activity, I offer my favorite "survival" recipe for your

consideration.https://www.finecooking.com/recipe/black-bean-

and-pepper-jack-burgers Thanks go to Shirley Maufe for












https://www.finecooking.com/recipe/black-bean-and-pepper-jack-burgers

https://www.finecooking.com/recipe/black-bean-and-pepper-jack-burgers


sharing it with me. Stay tuned for more updates as we move forward to a full recovery.

Chairman: Ken Main [email protected], (925) 945-1065

DINE OUT - SINGLE SIRS

We used to dine the first Tuesday of the

month. When it is determined that local restaurants may be safely patronized, we will be happy to return. In the meantime, we dine SIP, (Shelter in Place). Members are encouraged to continue supporting local restaurants with a monthly dinner picked up or delivered for enjoying while SIP.

Glenn Gilman Chair 798-5155 [email protected] Don Atwater, Asst. Chairman 673-1669 datwater@pacbell. Ray de Wit, Host 433-2951 [email protected]

EXPLORE AND EAT No new report submitted for June. Ron Woods’. [email protected] Tel: (925) 930-9194.

MIXER

No new report submitted for June. The MIXER meets the last Tuesday of every month, now at JACK’S RESTARANT & BAR in downtown Pleasant Hill at 60 Crescent Drive, from 3PM to 6PM (which is also happy hour). Friends of the Mixer next meet

on July 30, Aug 27, Sept 24. Bring your Lady. Chairman, Jack Sagen (925) 376-2749

SIRS IN THE KITCHEN

Sirs in the Kitchen

Benson Bests Ramsey

Since we are currently on lockdown and faced with social distancing, we’ve had to curtail our usual luncheon get-togethers until further notice. Not to be undone, Sirs in the Kitchen had a most unusual meeting. We did it virtually via. , and a good time was had by all. On May 18, an intrepid band of 14 chefs under the leadership of Executive Chef Ed had a fun-filled meeting from about 11.15 to 12.30. We kicked it off with a round robin about how everybody was doing. The big news was that Chef Ron S. joined us for a while after having hip replacement surgery the previous Friday, and he’s doing just fine. After warming the group up, there was a lively discussion about recent wine purchases. They covered both white and red and ranged in price from $5 to $12. EC Ed being a frugal sort presented his recent Milestone Cab find from Costco for under $5. The entree included a contest between the famed chef, Gordon Ramsey and EC Ed, and the featured meal was short ribs. The chefs voted, and EC Ed kicked his butt. Should anyone want the recipes, drop EC Ed an email. After EC Ed took a celebratory lap around the kitchen, the meeting drew to a close. Everybody said they wanted to do it in June. Interestingly, shortly after the contest, Chef Ramsey called EC Ed, and said he wanted a rematch. Being a gracious winner, EC Ed quickly granted one, and it will be done over the Sirs in the Kitchen network on Monday, June 15 from 11.30 to around 1.00. The meal will include steak with chimichurri sauce and a bean side dish. Tune in, and see if EC Ed can prevail again or whether Chef Ramsey will come out on top. Should anyone wish to view this contest, drop EC Ed an email at [email protected]. Who says Sirs can’t have fun in these strange times. . - Ed Benson









FISHING - AREA 16

All SIR members and guests are welcome, and indeed encouraged, to

participate in fishing trips as

well as attend the

monthly meetings. Next meeting will be in the Legend Sports Bar and Grill at the Diablo Creek Golf Course at 4050 Port Chicago Highway in Concord. ???? Meeting starts at 8:30am, come early. Contacts are Ron Lew 925-550-4166 and Carl Moyer 925-685-5243.

The unknowns are:

The date of the next meeting?

When can the party boats resume, under what conditions, a problem is that the bay and ocean are in many different counties, all with different rules?

When can we narrow social distancing, so we can fish together?

Nonetheless, we managed some fishing. Phil Scimonelli, Brion Beetz, Mario Moritorio, and Joe Miscione shore fished for stripers. Phil caught a keeper. Mike Corker and Tom Kostik fished for black bass. Brion Beetz and Carl Moyer caught some rockfish and a lingcod. Our winter and spring trout fishing in local lakes was inaccessible, so did not happen. We are all ready to go fishin!!!

- Carl Moyer

FOREIGN FILMS

No activity. All theater venues are shut down until further notice. We are hoping for re-openings but none are scheduled yet.

David Bushnell, Chairman, [email protected]

GOLF - 9 HOLES

The lock down has been lifted !!!

We are back in action (with some Diablo Hills Golf Course restrictions) on Weds., 06/10. Come join us for some golf and a fun time on Weds. at 9:00 AM…signup up for a tee time on the Branch website under 9 Hole Golf.

Mike Frey, Chair: [email protected] (925) 699-1784 Phil Philpot, Asst. Chair: [email protected] Frank Kilarr, Asst. Chair: [email protected]

GOLF 18 HOLES Starting with June 18 Hole Golf will be up and running. COVID-19 has placed conditions on how we play both on Branch 8 as well as each golf course we play. Branch 8: No carpooling, no social gathering before or after golf. An appointed Marshall or Golf Course employee will let us know the golf course specific

safety measures and playing restrictions. On June 9 we will be playing Callippe Golf Course. Their restrictions and new operating protocol include: ( note: at the time of this writing Callippe is restricting play to Alameda County Residents only hopefully this restriction will be lifted by the time of our play) Check in for golf will be in a designated space limited to one guest at a time. The driving range has been reduced to 50% capacity. Doors will be propped open to avoid touch points. Ball washers have been removed from the golf course to reduce touch points. Rakes have been removed from the golf course bunkers to

reduce touch points (play as ground under repair). The cups have been raised above ground level and flag sticks are to remain in place to avoid touch points. Cleaning of high touch points has been increased to 4 to 6 times per day. Employees at point of sale stations wear gloves and masks. All employees have received additional training on sanitary standards.

This seems to be the norm for many golf courses. .However, a blast will be sent out to the 18 Hole Golf Group a week before our scheduled play. .Play well play safe and above all have fun! Bill Koski [email protected] 925 672 7650 or Jim [email protected] 925 939 7925.

BRANCH 8 ANNUAL GOLF OUTING - MONTEREY CALIF

Block these dates on your calendar October 19-21

Richard Fiscina caught this delicious halibut in the bay

SIR









GOLF – COUPLES No new report or poem submitted for June.

Chairman: Paul Derby

[email protected]

MODEL TRAINS

Are you interested in the trains? In running model trains? In designing layouts? In constructing the various buildings and scenery for a model railroad layout? If your answer is YES to any of these please join us. We will

find people interested in the various aspects and everyone will do the parts they want. We already have a few people with knowledge and who are willing to contribute and to train others. And we have a place (my garage) and a start on a layout (a 5’6” by 9’6” board). And some track and a basic layout and a train. The first meeting will be on and will be an open discussion of what everyone is interested in doing (even if it is just watching). To get an invitation please ask me via email at [email protected] If you have a preference let me know when you would most likely attend a meeting. And if you need help with let me know. Rich Knowles, [email protected]

PICKLE BALL

- Nick Maufe, Chairman,

[email protected]

SIRS AT THE GAMES

Steve Schramm

([email protected])

Here is a link to Contra Costa Health Services for the latest information: https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/frequently-asked-questions


People in quarantine have way too much time on their hands.







https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/frequently-asked-questions


HEADS-UP WALKERS

GOOD NEWS – The May 11th

BEC approved the

Walking Activity to start up again as

long as we comply

with the state, county and SIR

rules for outdoor exercise.

5/21/2020: Concord: C.C.C. Regional Trail, Via Montanas. Take Treat Blvd east. Go 3/4 mile past Oak Grove and turn left on San Miguel. Turn right on Via Montanas. Turn left into the Parking Lot just past the bridge over the canal. Cafe: Not Yet. Leader: Stan Johnson

5/28/2020: Concord: Concord , Hester Park. Meet at Hester Park , corner of Hookston & Bancroft, street parking on Hampton or Hookston, adjacent to the park. Cafe: Not Yet. Leader: Steve Schramm

6/4/2020: Pleasant Hill: C.C. Canal. Meet in the shopping center parking lot at the corner of Taylor & Morello, (North of the service station). Cafe: Not Yet. Leader: Stu Harris

6/11/2020: To Be Determined: Stay Tuned. Cafe: Not Yet. Leader: Terry Norton

6/18/2020: To Be Determined: Stay Tuned. Cafe: Not Yet. Leader: Vic Unsinn

6/25/2020: To Be Determined: Stay Tuned. Cafe: Not Yet. Leader: Bill Peterson

ACTIVITY CHAIRMAN: Dan Weller, 925-935-5510, [email protected] ASSISTANT CHAIR: Dave Morse, 925-938-3078, [email protected] ASSISTANT CHAIR: Jim Kawal, 925-228-8821, [email protected]

SIR HIKERS The BEC has approved the restart plan that we submitted for the Hiker Activity. Our Hikers must adhere to the

conditions that we described in the plan.

With the information we have now, there is one detail we are not sure of – that is the size of the group of hikers on any hike and the make-up of the group. The size of any group for any activity, at one time, was a maximum of 10. That size dropped to a smaller allowed group at one time. Additionally, at one time, members of a group were limited to people living in the same residence. We hope to verify these limitations before the end of the month. Although we do not anticipate a problem, we may have to modify the restart plan. Additionally, public health guidance from state and local authorities may require plan modifications. The BEC will monitor this guidance. Our Hiker activity experiences may also lead to some adjustments in our plan as we go forward. Proposed Hiker activity health safety measures (i.e. face coverings, distancing 6 ft. or more, gloves, etc.): When planning the hike, check the size of the group limits specified by public health authorities. Check the park website to determine if the trail-head and parking lots, or the entire park itself are closed. Some websites may not be up to date (or different pages may have conflicting information) so verify with the park ranger (or other official) to confirm. Car Pooling is not allowed because a 6-foot social distance cannot be maintained. So each hiker must bring his car When conducting your pre-hike, check on the availability of parking (both Park parking and nearby street parking) (remember, each hiker must bring his car). Each person must maintain a 6-foot social distance from other people. This distance should be increased when SIR hikers and other people are breathing heavily with exertion when they pass others on a steep trail or on bicycles. Each hiker must bring a face mask and wear it whenever six-feet between the hiker and any other person cannot be maintained. Hikers should be prepared at the minimum to wear masks when in parking lots, staging areas, and around entrance gates since they can be crowded, making it difficult to maintain 6-feet social distancing. Hikers should also be prepared to put on masks when hiking on narrow or busy trails. Bring hand sanitizer. Hiker Chairman Dave Davis, 925-838-1753, [email protected] Hiker Assistant Chairman Martin Simmons, 925-586-2704, [email protected]








SUMS IN RETIREMENT

No new report submitted for June. $UMS in Retirement meets at 8 AM at the Legends Restaurant at Diablo Creek Golf Course on Port Chicago

Highway, Concord, just north of Hwy 4.

Ladies are welcome.

Chair - Tom Henry - Branch

174 [email protected] Co-chair Dave Sutton - Branch 8 - [email protected]

TRAVELING SIRS

We have one trip for scheduled for 2020: The Laguna Arts Festival, Pageant of the Masters in Southern

California July 26-29 2020. Roundtrip air to Los Angeles, 3 night stay in Long Beach, tour of Ronald Reagan Library. Gondola Cruise with dinner at Naples Rib Company. Roundtrip transportation aboard the Catalina Express, tour of Catalina Island. Tour Mission San Juan Capistrano, reserved main center seats for Pageant of the Masters. guided Los Angeles city tour, admission into Space Shuttle Endeavour exhibit. 5 meals home pickup and return. [email protected] (925) 890-9245

ALL ABOUT WINE

No new report submitted by press time. - Chairman Tom Anders 707-322-4500

BARGAIN WINES No new report submitted for June.

An announcement will be sent to our members once details are final.

Chairman: Jim Warner, 457-9979

Assistant: Dennis Mierzwa, 938-5343

WINE CELLAR FILLERS

CFWA is open to members, applicants, and guests and is a great way to introduce a guest to SIR. It is the only SIR wine activity that is not co-ed. We meet for a simple lunch of sandwiches and fixin's, then taste 5 whites and 5 reds or an occasional blush wine. Our price point is $7.00-ish, and the cost of the event is around $10.00, depending on the wines selected and how many attend. A report listing the

wines, their rankings, price and source will be sent to the CFWA members, and posted on the Branch 8 website. We also have an informal purchasing committee that buys the wine, usually on Wednesday before the usual Friday of the tastings. The chair and assistant chair, aided by anyone desiring to be involved, buy the wine. Jim Sowell, Chair, [email protected], (925) 939-4670 or (925) 457-7746 cel Scott Graff, Ass't Chair, [email protected], (925) 552-6097

WINE FINDERS 1

No new report submitted by press time.

Ron Smith- Chairman [email protected] 925-314-3066

Tony de Losada, Asst. Chair

SIR









WINE FINDERS 2

We held a "virtual" wine tasting in April. It was actually a wine drinking. Derek Southern hosted a meeting Attended by ten of us. We brought a favorite wine and appetizer. Conversation was lively and it was great to get together. Winefinders #1 has also done this. If your activity is conducive to a

meeting, give it a try. Ron Cassano. Head Winoz [email protected]

WINE FINDERS 3

No new report submitted by press time. Larry McEwen

WOODPECKERS

We have now begun to ease slowly and safely back into some of our activities – mainly the outdoor activities where social distancing can be maintained. The situation for the Woodpeckers is that our operating area is basically confined to the shop; sometimes working outside in the driveway. We are constantly exchanging tools and safety equipment back and forth. So,

given the parameters and the nature of our activity, I feel that we are not yet ready to attempt a "comeback." Presently we have been keeping/honing our woodworking skills by individual projects and/or home maintenance and repair and exchanging woodworking-related media. Before the stay-at-home order, we had plans to incorporate welding into our skills arsenal and possibly do projects that combined metal work and woodworking. Subsequently, I have equipped the shop with a small welder and the necessary tools and accessories (see photo).

I have been homeschooling welding with the help of my friend (a professional welder), textbooks, and YouTube.The hope is to be ready for a welding session when we are once again able to meet face-to-face – sparks will fly. For June, we will attempt a meeting; if for nothing else, just to remind what each of us looks like. Woodpeckers (under normal circumstances) meets on the first Saturday of the month (and other days as decided upon by the members), at 10am at the shop of Thom Watkins.Here's to our health and safety: may we all come out of this unscathed. - Thom Watkins, 925.330.3780, [email protected]

WRITING YOUR LIFE

STORY

WYLS will be having a change in leadership. An announcement will be made soon.. Dick Brewer: 925-933-0876 [email protected]

HOTLINE EDITORS

Jack Sagen [email protected]

Dan Smith [email protected]

Tom Barnidge [email protected]

COORDINATOR

Chuck Joyce [email protected]

PUBLISHER

Rob Laaback [email protected]

WEB MASTER

Derek Southern [email protected]

HOTLINE E-MAIL ADDRESS: [email protected]

Send your articles and photos BEFORE the 20th of the month. Include meeting information & dates for the following month, to keep your group informed about meetings, deadlines and upcoming events. Late reports may not be included in the Hotline.












STATE SIR HAPPENINGS

A complete archive is now on the State website at: http://sirinc.org/sirhappenings/pastissues.html

RESOURCES FOR OUR MEMBERS, FAMILY & FRIENDS

Held once a month on the SECOND THURSDAY!

Sponsored by the City of Concord and Contra Costa Legal Services. Sixty years of age and older, M/F invited to attend for a 45 Minute personal advice from Attorneys on: Advance Health Care Directives (AHCD). No income requirements. By appointment only! Call Concord Senior Center: 925-671-3320 and sign up. There are six appointments

Mention you are a SIR from Branch 8!

Tony de Losada P & I Chairman

ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES:

There's a free non-profit facility in Concord that provides assistance in case of elder abuse (physical or financial), domestic violence or sexual abuse. It's the Family Justice Center at 2151 Salvio St, Room 201 (office building opposite Todos Santos Plaza behind the fountain). Their website is: http://www.cocofamilyjustice.org/ We also have literature about Adult Protective Services run by the county. They have offices in Martinez at 2530 Arnold Dr. #300. To report abuse please call Adult Protective Services at (877) 839-4347.

mowdiabloregion.org (925) 937-8311 Meals on Wheels, Fall Prevention Care Management, Friendly Visitors/Callers

So that No One Faces Cancer Alone www. cancersupport.net / (925) 933-0107, 3276 McNutt Ave, WC., 94597

(APS)

SIR


http://sirinc.org/sirhappenings/pastissues.html

http://www.cocofamilyjustice.org/

http://mowdiabloregion.org/


Assistant Webmaster: The principal job of an

Assistant Webmaster (AW) is to help keep the Activity pages up to date. The text for each page is supplied each month by an Activity Chair, and the AW copies the submission into the proper page. This is very similar to using Word and completing a Copy-Paste operation. Some activities provide pictures of members enjoying the activity, these are easily added to the page with the text. We need several AWs as there are probably 30 pages to update each month. Any necessary training will be provided, including written instructions and short demo videos as appropriate. We have a website for new AWs where they can practice until they feel confident – and messing up is irrelevant as nobody else ever sees the mistakes! To discuss just call or email me, Derek Southern: 925-253-1646 or [email protected]

Book Exchange: WE HAVE A PROBLEM!! We've lost

an Assistant Chairman and will be facing an issue of having enough books for our monthly meetings. So we are looking for a couple of people to help us out. If you are able to lift 20lbs,…you qualify! If you can transport 5-10 boxes of books in your car…you qualify. if you are willing to drive to a location to pick up the boxes of books…you won’t even have to store the boxes at your house!! Contact: Chairman: Alan Curtis, [email protected].

Badge Assistant: Assist the Attendance Secretary by

bringing and setting up the badge trays as part of our lunch-time logistics. Create, repair, and retire badges as needed. Aid the Attendance Secretary in reconciling lunch attendance via unused badges. Collect the badges and badge trays after the lunch, take them home and refile badges in the trays. Estimated 7-8 hours / month. For more information contact:Bill Peterson: 925-676-5295, [email protected]

Hotline Editor: Join

our team - editing this newsletter. Some familiarity with Microsoft Word desired. Each month, a different editor updates all of the Activity reports submitted by the Chairmen. Don't worry - we will train, and bring you along slowly. Please E-mail Chuck Joyce at: [email protected]

Hotline Coordinator: Direct

our team - editing this newsletter. Familiarity with Microsoft Word a must. Each month, a different editor updates all of the Activity reports submitted by the Chairmen, then forwards all to the Coordinator to embellish. Don't worry - we will train, and bring you along slowly. Please E-mail Chuck Joyce at: [email protected]

Video Equipment setup:

Help is needed with the setup of the video equipment for Speaker slide and Power Point presentations. E-mail [email protected] if you

can volunteer.

SIR CLASSIFIED ADS

NOT A

REAL SIR

BADGE









SIR


2020 branch 8 website: “make · send hotline comments to chuck joyce at [email protected]........

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